Abstract
Polymer optics have gained increasing importance in recent years. With advancing requirements for the optical components, the fabrication process remains a challenge. In particular, the fabrication of the mold inserts for the replication process is crucial for obtaining high-quality optical components. This review focuses on fabrication technologies for optical mold inserts. Thereby, two main types of technologies can be distinguished: fabrication methods to create mold inserts with optical surface quality and methods to create optical microstructures. Since optical mold inserts usually require outstanding form accuracies and surface qualities, a focus is placed on these factors. This review aims to give an overview of available methods as well as support the selection process when a fabrication technology is needed for a defined application. Furthermore, references are given to detailed descriptions of each technology if a deeper understanding of the processes is required.
Highlights
Polymer optics have gained increasing importance in recent years
One of the most critical points in the fabrication of polymer optical components is the mold insert required for injection molding or injection compression molding, respectively
The available technologies for the fabrication of optical mold inserts enable the production of high-quality optical parts that can compete with glass optics and replace them in a multitude of applications
Summary
Polymer optics have gained increasing importance in recent years. They compete with traditional glass lenses in various fields of applications. Technological advantages in the fabrication process of polymer optics enable fast replication of optical elements with a wide range of geometries as well as micro-structures. This is a major advantage compared to glass optics, allowing for more freedom in optical design. Applications range from illumination [2] and imaging [3] to automotives [4] Another upcoming trend in polymer optics are micro-structured components. The combin2aotifo2n5 of lenses with micro-structured features can be used to increase their performance, reduce the weight of optical systems, correct aberrations, and shape beams. Structural dimensions and achievable surface quality of fabrication technologies for ooptical mold insseerrttss
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